Continue your plan
Useful next calculations
When to use this calculator
- Before choosing between saving, investing or changing a contribution.
- When you want to compare cautious, base and optimistic return assumptions.
- When you need a projection before making a longer-term decision.
- When you want to see whether starting earlier or contributing more changes the outcome more.
A realistic New Zealand planning example
Use these sample inputs as a quick scenario test, then change one variable at a time to compare outcomes.
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Your Current Age | 35 |
| Living Situation at 65 | Single — living alone |
| Current Retirement Savings (NZ$) | NZ$15,000 |
| Additional Annual Savings (NZ$) | NZ$15,000 |
After entering these figures, review annual nz super, weekly nz super and projected savings at 65 together rather than in isolation. Then rerun the tool with one input adjusted.
How to read your results
Annual NZ Super
The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.
Weekly NZ Super
The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.
Projected Savings at 65
The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.
4% Drawdown from Savings
The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.
Total Estimated Annual Income
The headline outcome of this calculation. It is most useful when read alongside the supporting metrics rather than in isolation.
Years to 65
The figure produced by this output for the inputs you entered. Change one variable at a time if you want to see what drives it.
Method & assumptionsAuthoritative sources
New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) is a universal government-funded pension paid to eligible New Zealanders from age 65. Unlike means-tested benefits, it is available to all who meet the residency requirements regardless of wealth, assets, or other income. The 2026/27 rates used in this calculator reflect three living situations: single living alone (NZ$25,539 per year), single sharing accommodation (NZ$23,487), and couples on a per-person basis (NZ$19,219 each). These rates are set annually by the New Zealand government and are generally adjusted in line with average wage growth to maintain their purchasing power over time. NZ Super is paid fortnightly directly to your bank account by Work and Income New Zealand after you apply, ideally a few weeks before your 65th birthday.
While NZ Super provides a meaningful income floor, most financial advisers recommend building additional savings through KiwiSaver or other investments to fund the retirement lifestyle you want. This calculator projects your savings growth using compound interest, then applies the widely used 4% annual drawdown rule to estimate a sustainable income from your nest egg. Adding that figure to your NZ Super total gives a rough estimate of annual retirement income. Keep in mind that this is an illustrative tool — actual investment returns vary, and inflation can erode purchasing power over time. For personalised retirement planning, consider speaking with a registered financial adviser or using the resources available through the government's Commission for Financial Capability (sorted.org.nz).
Common mistakes
- !Using an assumption that is not supported by a current local quote, bill, statement or official source.
- !Treating a generic estimate as a lender, provider, payroll or tax authority decision.
- !Mixing monthly and annual inputs without converting them consistently.
- !Testing only one scenario instead of checking how a cautious assumption changes the result.
What to do next
- Run a second scenario with a cautious assumption so you can see the downside clearly.
- Compare the result with the related calculators below before making a decision.
- Check current local rules, eligibility and provider terms before applying or committing money.
- Keep a record of the assumptions so you can update the estimate when a quote, bill or pay figure changes.
Frequently asked
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